PRessing On: Real Life in Public Relations

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with  Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, university professor at California Baptist University, who has built a career spanning both industry and academia and has helped countless PR students find their footing in the field of public relations. 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, APR, is a leadership communication scholar, practitioner, and mentor with more ...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Lindsay Hughes, founder of Tapped In Public Relations, where she helps water utilities and public agencies build trust and communicate their value to the communities they serve. With over 15 years of experience in strategic communications, Lindsay has led PR efforts across nonprofit, tech, and municipal sectors—most recently sp...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Mike Harris, COO and Partner at UPRoar PR by Moburst, where he helps brands turn bold ideas into breakthrough moments. With over 15 years of experience leading communications and growth strategy, Mike has guided clients ranging from high-growth startups to global consumer brands through everything from product launches to crisis moments.

Before UPRoar merged with Mobur...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with author Christina Byrne, Director of Industry Relations and Strategic Engagement at HNTB. As HNTB’s Director of Industry Relations and Strategic Engagement, Christina Byrne serves as a trusted connector between leadership, client teams, and the communities the firm serves. She leads strategic communications and engagement efforts that strengthen client relationships, el...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Geri Koenig, Founder of König Creative Co, as she shares how she collaborates with clients nationwide across industries to develop branding that is set up for success and growth. Through her studio, located in sunny San Diego, Geri partners with small businesses and entrepreneurs to craft bold brand identities, digital experiences, and marketing materials. Her mission ...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Tamrin Olden, CEO of TOC Public Relations. Originally launched as Law Enforcement Social, starting with web design services in 2004 and then eventually providing social media services to law enforcement agencies, TOK specializes in law enforcement, fire service and public safety outreach. Following a few years of research and development, Law Enforcement Social began t...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Jennifer Kaplan, Founder of Evolve PR & Marketing, Arizona’s largest PR firm. Since launching the agency in 2010, she has led Evolve’s growth from a small, client-focused team into a powerhouse of 27 full-time publicists serving more than 100 clients across local and national markets.

A proud Phoenix native and Arizona State University alumna, Jennifer’s deep Valle...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with the Founder and CEO of Featured, a platform that connects subject-matter experts with top publishers to create ready-to-publish Q&A content. Featured hosts more than 50,000 experts whose insights are published across 1,000+ media outlets, including Fast Company and Entrepreneur.com. In 2025, Brett led Featured’s acquisition and revival of Help a Reporter Out (HARO)...

What does it take to become an award-winning PR pro? In this episode of PRessing On in Public Relations, Rachel and Liselle pull back the curtain on how to elevate your brand, boost your credibility, and bring home the gold—whether you're a solo strategist or leading a full team. From myth-busting and budgeting tips to crafting a killer awards calendar and navigating rejection, this episode is packed with practical advice, hard-won...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations episode that you are sure to enjoy! Whether you are a seasoned professional or straight out of college, Confessions of a PR Intern 2.0 is an absolute must-listen!   

Confessions of a PR Intern was first recorded in 2020 and turned out to be the most listened to episode for the podcast!

In this episode, Confessions of a PR Intern 2.0, Rachel and Liselle invited some of their PR friends w...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation on Acing the APR! Thinking about pursuing your APR but feeling overwhelmed? Not sure where to start—or how to stay on track? If you’re nodding yes, this episode is made for you.

Rachel and Liselle have been through the APR process themselves, and they’re sharing the tips they wish they had when they started. From building your Readiness Review panel to tackling the exam wit...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation on consulting with expert Michael Zipursky. In this episode, Michael shares his journey to building a successful consulting business, unpacking the challenges, strategies, and mindset shifts that paved the way. From overcoming hurdles to crafting a powerful brand, he reveals actionable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Plus, Michael offers a refreshing take on success—th...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation on top tips for conferencing. Does too much conferencing have you burnt out? Not sure what conferences are right for you? Looking to maximize your conference experience? If you answered, yes, then this episode is for you!

Rachel and Liselle have sat through more conference keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking mixers than they can count—so you don’t have to. Whether y...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Brenda Duran, a highly accomplished public relations specialist with a notable decade-long tenure in Los Angeles County. Listen in as we dig deep into the influence of women and Latinas in public relations.

Her career has been marked by significant contributions in key roles, including Communications Director for the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder County Clerk a...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Amanda Proscia, Co-founder from Lightspeed Public Relations and Marketing, a New York City-based agency focused on the technology sector. Listen in as we dig deep into unlocking the secrets to creating a powerful public image.

An unexpected part of her experience over the years has been fielding thousands of questions about public relations. Many of them come from busi...

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Lindsay Kirsh, from Slayer Public Relations, and listen in as we dig deep into what it means to brand boldly.

With over 15 years of experience, Lindsay is a recognized leader in the public relations industry. She specializes in media relations, crisis communications and strategic public relations.

Lindsay is known for her bold approach to public relations. She consiste...

Have you considered the hidden costs of attempting to handle everything in-house? We've experienced this while working in-house and externally. Spoiler alert...it's not worth it!

In this episode, we discuss when to DIY vs. when to call in the pros. We discuss the balance between learning new skills and knowing when to bring in an expert, share examples of when DIY efforts can backfire and when you should rely on a professional. Le...

Listen in to the audible audio book for Chapter 10 "Crafting Your Brand: Mastering the Art of Effective Marketing" from the book, A Practical Guide to Starting Your Own PR Firm. Listen to this chapter narrated by Liselle DeGrave, from DeGrave Communications, as she shares insights to the branding seen and unseen, networking and more! 

For more information on the book, A Practical Guide to Starting Your Own PR Firm, or to purchase a...